Strong Sales within Small SUV Category this Spring
Predicted

CHICAGO--March 24, 2014: Despite the changing seasons, vehicle
popularity in the United States has remained largely consistent over the
past two years, dominated by light trucks and mid-sized sedans. Cars.com
predicts the rapidly growing small SUV segment will shift make/model sales
rankings in 2014.

"The growth of the small SUV segment is undeniable and it's extremely
likely that the future lists – starting this spring – will
include more small SUVs as well as higher rankings for the existing ones.
Models such as the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue
now appeal to a much wider consumer base due to their functional nature,
affordable price points and low cost of ownership," said Jesse Toprak,
chief analyst for Cars.com.

In February, the small SUV segment reached a record 18 percent market
share. The segment is up from 15 percent in February 2013 with no slowdown
in sales on the horizon, according to Toprak.

On a regional level, spring 2012 and 2013 purchases were distributed
evenly throughout the country, with the Ford F-Series and Honda Accord
holding top ranks. The growing presence of the small SUV segment is most
apparent in the Mid Atlantic, with the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4
and Nissan Rogue all claiming positions in the top 10. Strong growth is
seen in the Southwest, South and West with the Honda CR-V quickly rising in
the ranks in spring 2013 over 2012.